Archive · 26 Jan 2026
US, South Korea agree on nuclear submarine cooperation
The United States and South Korea have agreed to work more closely on a plan for South Korea to have a nuclear-powered submarine.
This is to help South Korea protect itself better, especially from threats like North Korea.
The U.S. wants South Korea to take a bigger role in its own defence.
South Korea has promised to spend more money on its military.
There are about 28,500 U.S. troops in South Korea to help with security.
The U.S. official visiting South Korea also praised South Korea for being a good ally.
US and South Korea agreed to deepen cooperation on South Korea's pursuit of a nuclear-powered submarine.
The agreement aims to strengthen South Korea's defence capabilities and elevate the security alliance.
US Under Secretary of Defense Elbridge Colby and South Korean Defence Minister Ahn Gyu-back held talks in Seoul.
South Korea pledged to increase defence spending to 3.5% of GDP, praised by US officials.
The US expects a more limited role in deterring North Korea, with South Korea taking primary responsibility.
- Who
- US Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Elbridge Colby and South Korean Defence Minister Ahn Gyu-back
- What
- Agreement to deepen cooperation on South Korea's pursuit of a nuclear-powered submarine
- When
- Monday, January 26, 2024
- Where
- Seoul, South Korea
- Why
- To strengthen South Korea's ability to lead the defence of the peninsula and elevate the security alliance
- Countries Involved
- United States, South Korea
- Key Figures
- Elbridge Colby, Ahn Gyu-back
- US Troops in South Korea
- 28,500
- South Korea's Defence Spending Pledge
- 3.5% of GDP
- Purpose of Cooperation
- Strengthen South Korea's defence capabilities